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Due to design specifications for office lighting, the NO (lumen) output of T128, T8, and T5 is about the same where the major difference is power consumption.

Scolley is running a 6X HO fixture so they must be out there.

The workhorse ballast will drive DIY NO or HO so I am just waiting on a pair of (minature bipin) endcaps to give it a try (not on the top of the to do list).

Quote:

Originally Posted by Raul-7

But the problem there are no T5 HO fixtures; which is odd given the fact T5's are available in all sizes unlike PC's. Anyone know if they make them? Or maybe a 30" fixture with two 24 HO bulbs on opposite sides? Or else I'll end up buying two Aqualight T5 fixtures.

But the problem there are no T5 HO fixtures; which is odd given the fact T5's are available in all sizes unlike PC's. Anyone know if they make them? Or maybe a 30" fixture with two 24 HO bulbs on opposite sides? Or else I'll end up buying two Aqualight T5 fixtures.

03-26-2006 08:51 PM

Wasserpest

Like Bob said, it comes down to the reflector.

On a lumen per watts basis, today T5 NO bulbs are the most efficient lamps available (that are useful for planted tanks). So from that point of view, not worth it isn't the right answer.

For a high light tank, it makes more sense to go with HO bulbs. Also, there is a better selection available.

For a low-light or not too deep medium light tank, T5 NO would be an excellent choice, better than the fatter ones.

Big Als and Commodityaxis sell a good variety of NO T5's.

In your case, since you want to grow high-light plants, HO T5 would probably be a better choice.

03-26-2006 06:46 PM

Betowess

Well it seems some fixtures use a parabolic reflector around each T5 lamp. Those are totally efficient. The ones which use a standard Coralife reflector aren't nearly as bright. Better to go with an AH Supply lightkit there.

03-25-2006 09:22 PM

Raul-7

Regular T5's - Not Worth It?

I have the Coralife 2x18W fixture over a 20G long and I was wondering how effective they are compared to NO flourscents? I remember someone telling me they weren't much better than T8's; is this true. Would I be able to grow Cyperus helferi or Blyxa?